Status epileptics can definitely be fatal. Epileptics are at serious risk of death from seizures or seizure-related injury so I would not be so dismissive of the risk.
Chasing the Scream is an excellent book and is thoroughly footnooted and referenced to combat Hari's prior history of troubles. Highly recommended if you are frustrated with the WOD.
Sebaceous glands function in a similar manner. Holocrine secretion where you basically expel the cell entirely. Not surprising really since breast tissue is essentially modified sweat/salivary gland.